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Restless leg syndrome or RLS is a painful condition of the nerves present in the legs that causes their involuntary movements. The condition becomes more pronounced during the night when the body is at rest.
Medical studies haven’t revealed the exact cause of RLS but it is now believed that the condition arises because of iron deficiency and is also commonly seen in people suffering from diabetes, obesity and in women who are pregnant. Medicinal herbs that help control central nervous system can be used for treating RLS.
Best Herbal Remedies For Restless Leg Syndrome
Butcher’s Broom
Butcher’s broom is an evergreen herb that belongs to the lily family and its dried leaves give a broom like appearance hence the name. The herb is a popular RLS treatment because it helps improve circulation in the body ensuring that the legs receive their share of the blood.The presence of photochemical ruscogenin is responsible for stabilizing the blood vessels by preventing production of elastin. The herb is available in tea form and drinking 2-3 cups of the herbal tea will reduce episodes of RLS especially at night.
Valerian Root
Valerian root has mild sedative properties but does not put one to sleep under the commercially available sedatives. The herb is used in the treatment of RLS because of its sedative effects; it directly affects the central nervous system and calms down the inflammation and the ‘jumpiness’ of the herbs. Take valerian capsules or drink valerian tea as per the doctor’s recommendation. The herbal treatment is not for children and pregnant women.
Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut is actually a tree that is found growing in certain regions of America. The seed from the fruit of horse chestnut is used for its medicinal properties and its extract is used for improving the health of veins and for helping with blood circulation in the body; both are very important for treating RLS.Do not use seeds directly from the tree for treatment of RLS since they are chemically toxic in their natural form. Instead use the commercially available extract for treating restless leg syndrome. Check with your doctor as to the right dosage.
American Skullcap
American skullcap has been used as a nerve relaxant for many years now and is used particularly for treating disorders of the central nervous system. Therefore, it is used for treating episodes of restless leg syndrome that may arise due to agitated nerves in the legs.American skullcap is easily available in tea form but should not be given to young girls and pregnant women as it induces bleeding. Do not drink more than three cups of the herbal tea daily so as to prevent failure of cardiac system.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a popular herb that is also referred to as milk vetch and is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. The herb is considered good for improving blood circulation and for helping in absorption of iron from the food we eat.The herbal tonic of astragalus is often used for strengthening the immune system as well as for treating RLS. Take 100-250 gms of astragalus pills every day after consulting your doctor.
